Ethnicity and awareness, knowledge, and trust in palliative and end-of-life care: Analysis of a nationally representative survey
Chung Yan Ip, Emel Yorganci, Joanna M Davies, Dr Sabrina Bajwah, Georgina Macdonald, Anna E Bone, Fliss EM Murtagh, Katherine E Sleeman
Abstract
Background: Ethnic inequalities in palliative and end-of-life care are well documented but poorly understood. The study aims to examine awareness, knowledge and trust in palliative care, by ethnicity. Methods: Online cross-sectional survey of 2,164 adults living in the UK (2024). Poisson regression models assessed associations between ethnicity and awareness and knowledge of palliative care, and trust in healthcare professionals to provide high-quality end-of-life care. Results: Regression results reveal that, compared to White British people, people of Asian ethnicity and those of Black, Caribbean or African ethnicity were less likely to: be aware of palliative care; have correct knowledge of palliative care; and trust healthcare professionals to deliver high-quality end-of-life care. Conclusion: Lower awareness, knowledge and trust in palliative care may partly explain ethnic inequalities in access to services. Understanding the views and needs of minoritised ethnic groups, and building trust and knowledge about palliative and end-of-life care, should be prioritised.